Yaz with the birth control pill
Many women of reproductive age take a combined or progestogen-only oral contraceptive while also using a chronic medication such as Yaz (Drospirenone/Ethinylestradiol). The combination is generally fine at 3mg/0.02mg, but a small number of medications can reduce contraceptive efficacy meaningfully and need either a backup method or a switch.
How Yaz can affect contraceptive efficacy
Combined and progestogen-only contraceptives are metabolised through CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inducers (some antiepileptics, rifampicin, St John's Wort) lower contraceptive plasma levels and reduce efficacy. Whether Drospirenone acts on CYP3A4 determines whether Yaz affects contraception. Most agents in Hormones and Birth Control have no clinically meaningful effect on the pill at 3mg/0.02mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Drospirenone, women on hormonal contraception should review Yaz with the prescribing pharmacist or doctor. Where an interaction is documented, additional barrier contraception or switching to a non-oral method (IUD, implant) for the duration of Yaz therapy is the standard mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Will Yaz make my pill less effective? ▾
Most Hormones and Birth Control medications at 3mg/0.02mg do not affect oral contraceptive efficacy. The exceptions are CYP3A4-inducing drugs and a small number of others. The prescribing information for Drospirenone states whether the interaction is meaningful.
Do I need a backup contraceptive on Yaz? ▾
Backup contraception is needed only when there is a documented interaction between Yaz and the contraceptive method. For most users at 3mg/0.02mg, no backup is required. The pharmacist confirms whether Drospirenone interacts with hormonal contraception.
More on Yaz
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.